Dental crowns, commonly referred to as "caps," are versatile dental restorations used to cover a damaged or compromised tooth entirely. Think of them as protective armor for your teeth. They encase the visible portion of a tooth, effectively restoring its form, function, and aesthetics. Crowns serve both functional and cosmetic purposes, making them a fundamental component of restorative dentistry.

These custom-made caps are designed to mimic the shape and appearance of your natural teeth. While they vary in material, their primary objective remains consistent: to offer strength and protection to teeth that have experienced damage, decay, or cosmetic imperfections. Dental crowns contribute to preserving your oral health, ensuring your ability to chew comfortably, and bolstering your self-assurance by enhancing your smile's aesthetics.

Dental crowns come with a plethora of advantages, going beyond mere restoration. These benefits make them an invaluable solution in the realm of dentistry:

1. Protection and Restoration: One of the primary roles of dental crowns is to safeguard and restore damaged teeth. Whether a tooth is weakened by decay, has endured fractures, or has been worn down over time, a crown provides a robust and protective layer. This safeguarding prevents further damage, preserving the remaining tooth structure.

2. Cosmetic Enhancement: Dental crowns aren't just functional; they are aesthetic marvels as well. They are an excellent remedy for enhancing the appearance of your smile. Crowns can effectively conceal misshapen or severely discolored teeth, bestowing upon you a natural and healthy look. Designed from materials such as porcelain and ceramic, which closely replicate the color and sheen of natural teeth, crowns subtly enhance your smile.

3. Improved Functionality: A damaged tooth can significantly hinder your ability to chew comfortably. Dental crowns come to the rescue by restoring the shape and strength of such teeth. This restoration ensures that you can enjoy your meals without discomfort, making eating a more pleasurable experience and promoting your overall well-being.

4. Durability: With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns have a commendable lifespan. They are a long-term solution for various dental issues, which makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run. Their robust structure and resilience contribute to their durability.

5. Confidence Boost: Confidence in your smile is paramount. A full and healthy smile significantly enhances your self-assurance. Knowing that your teeth look good can improve your comfort in social settings and boost your overall quality of life. Dental crowns are instrumental in achieving this confidence by enhancing the aesthetics of your teeth.

Dental crowns are available in various materials, each offering distinct advantages and suited to different circumstances. The choice of crown material depends on factors such as the location and function of the tooth, patient preference, and the dentist's recommendation. Some common crown materials include:

1. Ceramic Crowns: These crowns are crafted from a porcelain-based material known for its ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. They are often used for restoring front teeth due to their aesthetic appeal.

2. Metal Crowns: Made from gold, nickel, chromium, or other alloys, metal crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand biting and chewing forces. They are known for their longevity.

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns provide a balance between durability and aesthetics. They have a metal structure for strength, overlaid with porcelain for a natural look.  While these crowns played a very significant role in recent dental history, they are no longer considered the “go-to” restoration due to porcelain chipping away from and exposing the underlying dark metal.

4. Zirconia Crowns:  A modern solution to both form and function, zirconia crowns merge the gap between esthetics and strength.  Zirconia crowns are known for their strength, particularly enduring heavy chewing forces of clenchers and grinders, while their tooth color meets the esthetic requirements of a natural looking tooth covering.

By understanding the different materials used for dental crowns, you can make informed decisions about the type of crown that best suits your specific dental needs. As we journey through this guide, you will explore the benefits of dental crowns in more detail, discover the various types available, and understand the procedure for obtaining a dental crown. Whether you're seeking restorative or cosmetic solutions, dental crowns offer versatile options to cater to your individual requirements.

Traditionally, crown fabrication involves two dental visits. In the first visit, the tooth is shaped and prepared for a crown by the dentist.  Then an impression or mold is taken to capture the shape of the tooth.  This impression is then used to fabricate a stone model of the tooth.  A dental lab will utilize the stone model to fabricate the final crown.  This typically takes the lab 1-2 weeks.  In the meantime, the patient is fitted with a temporary acrylic crown to cover and protect the tooth during the time the lab is making the final crown.  The patient will wear the temporary crown until their second appointment when the temporary crown is removed and the final crown is cemented in place.  

Innovations in the field of dentistry, however, have introduced a remarkable advancement known as same day crowns. Unlike the traditional method that requires multiple visits and temporary crowns, same day crowns offer a convenient and efficient solution for patients seeking dental restoration.

The driving force behind same day crowns is the application of Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. This advanced technology enables dentists to create a 3D digital image of the patient's tooth, a significant departure from traditional physical impressions. The digital design is then used to manufacture an accurately fitting crown within the dental office.

The crown is crafted using an in-office milling machine, which carves it out of a block of ceramic or zirconia. This process takes just a matter of minutes, offering a highly efficient and precise solution for patients. Immediate access to digital impressions and in-house manufacturing eliminates the need for temporary crowns, saving patients time and reducing discomfort.

Same day crowns offer several compelling benefits that have made them an attractive option for many dental patients:

1. Time-Efficiency: The most obvious benefit is the significant reduction in time required for the entire process. With same day crowns, you can walk into the dental office and walk out with your final crown, all in a single appointment.

2. Accurate Fit: CAD/CAM technology ensures an incredibly precise fit for your crown. This reduces the likelihood of discomfort or adjustments needed after the placement of the crown.

3. No Need for Temporary Crowns: Traditional procedures involve the use of temporary crowns while the permanent one is being crafted at a dental laboratory. Temporary crowns can be less comfortable and secure. Same day crowns eliminate the need for these temporaries.

4. Aesthetically Pleasing: Same day crowns are typically made from ceramic or zirconia, materials that can closely match the natural color of your teeth. This ensures a more aesthetically pleasing result.

5. Comfort for Sensitive Patients: The digital impressions used for same day crowns are often more comfortable for patients, especially for those with a sensitive gag reflex.

At Kokomo Family Dentistry, we understand the significance of providing our patients with the latest in dental technology and convenient treatment options. One of our key areas of focus is the implementation of same day crowns, which offer remarkable advantages for our patients.

Our commitment to patient care and satisfaction is evident in our approach to same day crowns. We offer same day crown services not only for porcelain and ceramic crowns but also for zirconia crowns. This comprehensive range ensures that our patients have access to the most advanced and aesthetically pleasing materials for their dental restorations.

What sets Kokomo Family Dentistry apart in the world of dental crown technology is our in-house milling capability and our utilization of intraoral scanners. Unlike traditional methods that involve sending impressions to external labs, our state-of-the-art in-house milling machine can craft your custom crown on the same day.

Our process begins with the use of an intraoral scanner, which provides a digital 3D image of your tooth. This advanced technology replaces traditional, often uncomfortable impressions, making the experience more pleasant for patients, including those with sensitive gag reflexes.

The digital impression is then transferred to our in-house milling machine, which precisely sculpts your crown from a solid block of ceramic, porcelain, or zirconia. This technology eliminates the need for temporary crowns, which are often less secure and comfortable than permanent crowns.

By utilizing intraoral scanning and in-house milling, we ensure a highly accurate fit for your crown. This not only saves you time but also reduces the risk of discomfort or adjustments associated with ill-fitting crowns.

While we specialize in same day services for porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia crowns, we also cater to the preferences of patients who seek porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns or all-gold crowns. These crown types, while considered more traditional, are still valuable options for specific dental cases.  In these cases, we work closely with trusted dental labs to create these specialized crowns.

Our commitment to patient-focused care means that we consider the individual needs, preferences, and dental conditions of each patient. Whether you choose a same day crown crafted with advanced technology or a traditional crown, you can expect the highest quality of service and care at Kokomo Family Dentistry. Your oral health, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we aim to provide the best possible outcomes for your dental restoration needs.

At Kokomo Family Dentistry, we believe that informed decisions are the cornerstone of excellent dental health. Our commitment to providing advanced dental crown options is a testament to our dedication to your well-being. When it comes to restoring your teeth, enhancing your smile, and maintaining optimal oral health, we offer choices that align with your unique needs and preferences.

The team at Kokomo Family Dentistry is dedicated to supporting you in making the right decisions for your oral health. We are here to answer your questions, alleviate your concerns, and guide you toward the best choice for your dental restoration. Our commitment to your well-being extends beyond technology and materials; it is rooted in delivering exceptional care and ensuring your confidence in your smile and oral health.

Investing in your dental health is investing in your overall quality of life. Your smile plays a fundamental role in your self-esteem and overall well-being. We encourage you to take that essential step towards a healthier, brighter smile by scheduling a consultation with our dental experts. Together, we can embark on a journey to protect, restore, and enhance your oral health while ensuring your satisfaction and confidence in every smile.